Inspiring community college students to advance in STEM fields

 

POSTED ON Sep 20, 2022

 

Seminole State College of Florida announced recently that two students earned spots in the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) Virtual Experience, held Aug. 3-9, after successfully completing a five-week online NCAS course.

Grace Calderon Santiago and Joseph A. McManus were selected from hundreds of community college students. The virtual experience helped them learn more about NASA’s missions and careers in science and engineering.

The Minority University Research and Education Program (MUREP) funds NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars to engage students in NASA’s mission of human exploration and sustainable expansion across the solar system.

“NCAS inspires community college students to advance in STEM fields, and it also opens doors for future careers at NASA. NCAS alumni can often move on to NASA internships and possibly ultimately enter the NASA workforce. It is rewarding to see the progression of a student from NCAS participant to NASA colleague,” said Torry Johnson, MUREP manager.

During the event held in August, students designed a mission to explore the moon or Mars. Each student joined a team, fulfilled a team role, managed a budget, and developed communication and outreach strategies. Students also attended events hosted by NASA subject matter experts, received information on how to apply for NASA internships, and virtually toured NASA’s unique facilities.

“I came into Seminole State not knowing where a path to gaining a degree would lead me, and I am proud to say that Seminole State College has now led me to my dreams,” said Calderon, who is pursuing an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree with a focus in aerospace engineering. I am very thankful for my professors for inspiring me and driving my ambitions.

Established in 1965, Seminole State College of Florida serves nearly 30,000 students across Central Florida. A comprehensive college, Seminole State has awarded more than 100,000 credentials, from bachelor’s degrees to high school diplomas, and offers more than 200 degrees, certificates, and programs designed for success.

“This has been an excellent experience overall,” noted McManus, who is studying mechanical engineering as part of his A.A. degree. “Not only did my mission team win the top prize in the Artemis category, but I also gained valuable connections with NASA employees for one-on-one mentorship and resume review opportunities.”